Marinated Cucumbers, Onions, and Tomatoes
This Marinated Cucumbers, Onions, and Tomatoes recipe is a delightful side dish that brings freshness and flavor to any meal. Perfect for summer barbecues, picnics, or even casual lunches, this dish combines crisp cucumbers, juicy tomatoes, and zesty onions in a tangy marinade. You’ll love how easy it is to prepare and how quickly it becomes a crowd favorite.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Refreshing Flavor: The combination of cucumbers, tomatoes, and onions provides a crisp and vibrant taste that awakens your palate.
- Easy Preparation: With minimal chopping and mixing required, this dish comes together quickly, making it ideal for busy days.
- Versatile Side: This marinated salad pairs well with grilled meats, sandwiches, or can be enjoyed on its own.
- Make Ahead Option: It tastes even better after sitting in the fridge for a few hours or overnight, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully.
- Healthy Ingredients: Packed with fresh veggies and light vinaigrette, it’s a nutritious choice for any meal.
Tools and Preparation
To make your preparation smooth and efficient, having the right tools is essential. Below are some items you will need for this recipe.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Mixing bowl
- Whisk
- Cutting board
- Sharp knife
- Storage container
Importance of Each Tool
- Mixing bowl: A large bowl allows you to comfortably combine all ingredients without spilling.
- Whisk: Ideal for blending the marinade smoothly so that all ingredients mix well together.
- Cutting board: Provides a safe surface for slicing vegetables while keeping your kitchen tidy.
- Sharp knife: Ensures clean cuts of cucumbers and tomatoes for an attractive presentation.
Ingredients
Vegetables
- 2 cucumbers, thinly sliced
- 1 pint cherry or grape tomatoes, halved
- 1 small red or white onion, thinly sliced
Marinade
- 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar or red wine vinegar
- 2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 1 tbsp chopped fresh parsley or dill
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
How to Make Marinated Cucumbers, Onions, and Tomatoes
Step 1: Prepare the Vegetables
Wash the cucumbers thoroughly. Slice them into thin rounds. Cut the tomatoes in half. Thinly slice the onion.
Step 2: Make the Marinade
In a mixing bowl:
1. Whisk together the vinegar and olive oil until blended.
2. Add minced garlic, salt, pepper, and optional red pepper flakes.
3. Mix until all ingredients are combined.
Step 3: Combine Ingredients
In a large bowl:
– Combine sliced cucumbers, halved tomatoes, and sliced onions.
– Pour the prepared marinade over the vegetables.
Step 4: Toss to Coat
Gently toss the vegetables in the marinade until they are evenly coated.
Step 5: Chill
Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or transfer to a storage container. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes but preferably for a few hours or overnight.
Step 6: Serve
Before serving:
– Toss again to redistribute the marinade.
– Garnish with additional fresh herbs if desired. Enjoy your delicious Marinated Cucumbers, Onions, and Tomatoes!
How to Serve Marinated Cucumbers, Onions, and Tomatoes
This vibrant salad is versatile and can enhance many meals. Here are some creative serving suggestions to enjoy your Marinated Cucumbers, Onions, and Tomatoes.
As a Standalone Salad
- Enjoy it on its own as a refreshing light meal during hot days.
With Grilled Meats
- Pair the salad with grilled chicken or steak for a delightful contrast of flavors.
In Sandwiches or Wraps
- Use the marinated mix as a topping for sandwiches or wraps to add crunch and zest.
Topped on Rice or Quinoa Bowls
- Spoon the salad over rice or quinoa bowls for added texture and flavor.
As an Appetizer
- Serve it as a starter at gatherings with toothpicks for easy eating.
With Cheese Plates
- Combine it with cheese and crackers for a delightful charcuterie board addition.
How to Perfect Marinated Cucumbers, Onions, and Tomatoes
To ensure your Marinated Cucumbers, Onions, and Tomatoes turn out perfectly every time, follow these tips.
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Use Fresh Ingredients: Always choose fresh cucumbers, tomatoes, and onions. This will enhance the overall flavor of your dish.
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Slice Evenly: Cut all vegetables into similar sizes for uniform marination and presentation.
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Marinate Longer: For the best taste, allow them to marinate longer—up to overnight is ideal.
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Adjust Seasoning: Feel free to tweak salt and vinegar levels based on your taste preference.
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Add Variety: Experiment with additional ingredients like bell peppers or olives for extra flavor dimensions.
Best Side Dishes for Marinated Cucumbers, Onions, and Tomatoes
Marinated Cucumbers, Onions, and Tomatoes pairs well with many side dishes. Here are some great options to complement your meal.
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Grilled Corn on the Cob: Sweet corn adds a smoky flavor that balances well with the tangy salad.
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Garlic Bread: A crunchy side that absorbs juices beautifully while adding a hint of garlic flavor.
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Potato Salad: Creamy potato salad provides a rich contrast to the crispness of your cucumber dish.
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Coleslaw: The crunch of coleslaw enhances the texture while offering a creamy counterpart.
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Roasted Vegetables: Seasoned roasted vegetables bring warmth and depth to your meal’s overall profile.
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Pasta Salad: A cold pasta salad can complement the freshness of the marinated vegetables nicely.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When preparing Marinated Cucumbers, Onions, and Tomatoes, it’s easy to make a few common mistakes. Here are some tips to ensure your dish turns out perfectly.
- Using stale vegetables: Freshness is key for this salad. Always select crisp cucumbers and ripe tomatoes for the best flavor.
- Skipping the marinating time: Don’t rush this step! Allowing the salad to marinate enhances the flavors. Aim for at least 30 minutes, but a few hours or overnight is ideal.
- Over-seasoning: It’s essential to taste as you go. Start with less salt and pepper, adding more gradually if needed to avoid overpowering the natural flavors of the veggies.
- Neglecting the herbs: Fresh herbs add a burst of flavor. Don’t skip them or use dried herbs instead; they won’t provide the same freshness in your Marinated Cucumbers, Onions, and Tomatoes.
- Not tossing before serving: For an even distribution of flavors, toss the salad again just before serving. This ensures that every bite is flavorful.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Keep refrigerated to maintain freshness and crunchiness.
Freezing Marinated Cucumbers, Onions, and Tomatoes
- It’s not recommended to freeze this salad as it can change texture.
- If necessary, consider freezing only the marinade separately.
Reheating Marinated Cucumbers, Onions, and Tomatoes
- Oven: Not recommended since this dish is best served cold.
- Microwave: Avoid heating; serve fresh from the fridge for optimal taste.
- Stovetop: Not suitable; enjoy it cold for the best experience.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions about Marinated Cucumbers, Onions, and Tomatoes.
Can I use other vegetables?
Yes! Feel free to add bell peppers or radishes for extra crunch.
How long should I marinate?
For maximum flavor, let it marinate for at least 30 minutes but overnight is even better.
Can I adjust the vinegar type?
Absolutely! Both apple cider vinegar and red wine vinegar work well in this recipe.
What can I serve with Marinated Cucumbers, Onions, and Tomatoes?
This salad pairs wonderfully with grilled meats or as a side dish at summer picnics.
Final Thoughts
Marinated Cucumbers, Onions, and Tomatoes is a vibrant side dish that brings together freshness and tangy flavors. It’s perfect for any meal or gathering. Feel free to customize it by adding your favorite veggies or herbs!
Marinated Cucumbers, Onions, and Tomatoes
- Total Time: 0 hours
- Yield: Serves 4
Description
Marinated Cucumbers, Onions, and Tomatoes is a vibrant and refreshing salad that elevates any meal with its crisp vegetables and zesty marinade. Perfect for summer barbecues or as a light side dish, this easy-to-make salad combines crunchy cucumbers, juicy tomatoes, and tangy onions in a simple vinaigrette. Not only does it offer a burst of flavor, but it also provides a nutritious option packed with fresh ingredients. Best of all, it can be prepared ahead of time, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully for an even more delightful taste experience.
Ingredients
- 2 cucumbers, thinly sliced
- 1 pint cherry or grape tomatoes, halved
- 1 small red or white onion, thinly sliced
- 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar or red wine vinegar
- 2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- Fresh parsley or dill (optional)
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Wash and slice the cucumbers into thin rounds.
- Halve the tomatoes and thinly slice the onion.
- In a mixing bowl, whisk together vinegar, olive oil, minced garlic, salt, and pepper until well combined.
- In a large bowl, combine sliced cucumbers, tomatoes, and onions.
- Pour the marinade over the vegetables and toss gently to coat.
- Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: None
- Category: Salad
- Method: Mixing
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (150g)
- Calories: 45
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 120mg
- Fat: 3g
- Saturated Fat: 0.5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 2g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 8g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 1g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
